13 Apr WATTS WINS LOWER DIVISIONS TITLE

David Watts of Meltham won the first trophy of the year at a cold and windy Outlane bowling green on Thursday 13 April.

The Lower Divisions Individual Trophy is aimed at bowlers plying their trade in Divisions 3, 4 and 5 of the 10-man league. Preliminary rounds were well supported this year with 16 at both Lowerhouses and Brockholes bowling down to just 4 from each getting through to the days final. There was plenty of support around the green for the contestants and even more in the warmth and shelter of the club house.

There were some tight quarter final ties with a couple of 21-18 wins for David Watts and Brian Faichney beating Chris Jepson and Peter Allen respectively whilst the other quarters were more comfortable wins for Craig Longbottom 21-12 against John Booker and Steven Ayre beating Gerard Quinn 21-15.

The two finalists had differing rides through the semis with Craig Longbottom beating Stephen Ayre comfortably to 8 whilst David Watts had a real tussle to despatch Brian Faichney to 20.

A 21-19 final score line was touch and go all through and was finally edged by David Watts of Meltham who was justifiably exhausted having had three tight matches. Those experiences and more green time helped in getting the better of Craig who had a relatively easy ride through to the final.

Outlane Bowling Club proved excellent hosts for the third consecutive year, the green was immaculate. The referee Ray Tunnacliffe bravely faced the rain and biting wind and his endurance must also be admired.